In what ways can we apply the lesson of excellence from Ezekiel 27:5? Ezekiel 27:5—Excellence on Display “ They made all your planks of cypress from Senir; they took a cedar from Lebanon to make you a mast.” • Tyre’s shipbuilders chose premier wood—cypress and Lebanon cedar—materials prized for strength, beauty, and durability. • Their careful selection and skilled craftsmanship illustrate a standard of quality that stands out in Scripture. What Excellence Looks Like Today • Consistent quality in our work: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23) • Integrity in every detail: “A righteous man who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him.” (Proverbs 20:7) • Diligence that earns respect: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings.” (Proverbs 22:29) Motivations Behind Excellence • God’s glory, not self-promotion: “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) • Love for neighbor: high-quality work protects, serves, and blesses others (Matthew 22:39). • Stewardship of gifts: Bezalel’s craftsmanship for the tabernacle (Exodus 35:30-35) models using God-given abilities fully. Practical Steps Toward Excellence 1. Set high standards that mirror God’s character of perfection (Matthew 5:48). 2. Invest in the best “materials” available—time, training, resources, and mentors. 3. Stay teachable: “Do your best to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed.” (2 Timothy 2:15) 4. Finish assignments thoroughly, resisting the temptation to cut corners. 5. Regularly evaluate: ask if your product, service, or ministry would satisfy the King you ultimately serve. Guardrails to Keep Excellence God-Centered • Humility: Daniel excelled, yet gave God the credit (Daniel 6:3; 2:28). • Contentment: excellence does not mean perfectionism that breeds anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7). • Purpose: remember Tyre’s downfall came from pride in its own beauty (Ezekiel 27:3; 28:17). Keep excellence a servant, not a master. Key Takeaways • Choose quality—whether tools, words, or attitudes—because God chose the best for us in Christ. • Excellence is worship in action, revealing the worthiness of the One we serve. • Ordinary tasks become extraordinary testimonies when done with extraordinary care and godly motive. |
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